Learning to sign

 

Unlike BSL training or that provided by some other organisations, Signalong training focuses on developing communication skills rather than teaching blocks of signs, many of which will be quickly forgotten through lack of use.   The precise Signalong method of presentation enables users to remind themselves of signs which have been forgotten and to learn new signs from the manuals.   Training programmes are thus able to stress aspects of the application of sign-supported communication.   These include: aspects of total communication, such as facial expression, body language and voice tone; plus simplification of language and keyword selection; reading signs performed by others.

 

The Signalong Group is a member of the Open College Network, providing training programmes which are externally moderated and carry transferable credits.

 

Training courses in Sign-supported Communication:

 

Introductory: This training can be tailored to the needs of any organisation and is useful to introduce communication skills to new staff and family members.   The emphasis is on the practical application of signing.  Introductory courses can be full or ½-day in duration

 

Foundation: The Foundation Course develops skills to a level where practitioners can apply signing in their own environment and includes some elements of communication theory.   It is a 15-hour course normally delivered over an extended period, and is the basic building block of Signalong training.  Click here for the course specification.  This course can be completed in 2 parts, Induction and Completion)

 

OCN Elementary Signing Skills:

Beginners 1

Beginners 2

Peer Learning

10-hour courses for service users carrying a nationally-recognised certificate of achievement in communication (1 credit at Pre-entry and Entry levels).  The Peer Learning course is for people with additional learning needs who would like to teach their peers to sign.

 

OCN Introductory Level 1: A 10-hour introductory qualification for staff providing a grounding in the skills needed for sign-supported communication (1 credit at Level 1)

 

OCN Intermediate (Level 2 Upgrade): A 20-hour course for holders of the level 1 certificate to gain the level 2 qualification

 

OCN Intermediate (Level 2): This 30-hour course (24 hours taught, 6 private study) develops the themes of the Foundation course and carries 3 credits at OCN level 2

 

Advanced: Tutor (OCN level 3):  Most Signalong training is delivered by registered tutors.   The Tutor Training Course is an intensive 5-day programme for people who have experience of signing in the context of learning difficulties, autism or the particular field in which they need to use augmentative communication.   The charity provides regular development and refresher seminars to keep tutors' skills fresh and to maintain quality control.   Tutor Training Courses are held at the Signalong Centre in Kent and in other locations several times each year.   They can be commissioned to be run at the premises of other organisations, or can be hosted in exchange for a free place on the course.   The course carries 6 credits at OCN level 3

 

TUTOR LIST
Click HERE for details of tutors in your area. Don't worry if you don't find someone local to you - most of our tutors are happy for enquiries to be passed on through the Signalong Centre. Contact Gill Kennard to ask for help

For further information about Signalong training or to discuss particular training needs please call Gill Kennard or Sarah Bissett on 0845 4508427